Jammu, Apr 08: In a concerted effort to tackle the illicit trade and supply of narcotics in Jammu and Kashmir, Chief Secretary AtalDulloo chaired the 9th UT level Apex committee meeting of NCORD. The meeting aimed to enhance coordination among various stakeholders at the highest level.
Attended by key officials including Principal Secretary Home, Special DG Crime, ADGP Jammu, and representatives from NCB and BSF, the meeting reviewed previous decisions and actions taken since the meeting held on January 1st.
Chief Secretary Dulloo emphasised the establishment of special NDPS courts and the augmentation of drug de-addiction facilities across districts. He underscored the importance of pharmacies adhering to strict norms, including CCTV installation and computerized billing to prevent misuse of psychotropic substances.
Dulloo also inquired about the number of detentions and successful convictions in the past year, as well as measures taken against drug dealers, including property attachment. He stressed the need for capacity building among Investigation Officers to improve conviction rates and prevent frequent acquittals.
Highlighting the vulnerability of youngsters to this social threat, Dulloo called for enhanced vigilance around educational institutions and other hotspots. He urged swift action against those involved in the drug trade.
Discussions also focused on long-term rehabilitation of victims in collaboration with departments like Social Welfare and Mission Youth. A reward policy for providing information about illegal drug traders was proposed.
Special DG Crime Deepak Kumar reported a significant increase in detentions and convictions this year, attributing it to a focus on quality investigation. Seizures this year included heroin, brown sugar, charas, poppy straw, bhang, and various capsules and syrups.
The meeting concluded with a call for enhanced coordination among stakeholders to eradicate the drug trade, making Jammu and Kashmir ‘NashaMukht’ in reality.